Herb Lime Vinaigrette

Herb Lime Vinaigrette Recipe from Bolivia - Lime Juice, Olive Oil, Cilantro, Basil, Dill Weed, Salt

Region / culture: Bolivia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Herb Lime Vinaigrette is a zesty and flavorful dressing that can elevate any salad or dish. The combination of fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and herbs creates a refreshing and tangy flavor profile that is perfect for summer meals.

History

The origins of Herb Lime Vinaigrette can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where the use of fresh herbs and citrus fruits in dressings is common. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

Recipe default

0.25 cup of fresh lime juice
0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp of chopped cilantro
0.5 tsp of dried basil
0.5 tsp of dried dill weed
0.5 tsp of salt

How to prepare

Blend all the ingredients thoroughly in a blender or food processor.
Drizzle the mixture over the salad and serve.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs for a more intense flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of herbs and salt to suit your taste preferences.

- Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Herb Lime Vinaigrette over a mixed green salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the ingredients in a food processor or blender helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and create a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

- Substitute parsley for cilantro if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Herb Lime Vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Drizzle the vinaigrette over a colorful salad with a variety of fresh vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Herb Lime Vinaigrette with grilled fish or seafood for a light and flavorful meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 1g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 22g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 0g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 4% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

Herb Lime Vinaigrette is a low-carb and high-fat dressing that is rich in healthy fats and vitamin C.

Summary

Herb Lime Vinaigrette is a versatile and flavorful dressing that can add a burst of freshness to any dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through the farmer's market when I stumbled upon a small booth selling fresh herbs and citrus fruits. As I browsed through the vibrant displays, a young woman handed me a sample of her Herb Lime Vinaigrette. The moment the tangy, herbaceous dressing touched my lips, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Maria. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who was a renowned chef in her hometown in Italy. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly jotted down the ingredients and instructions in my tattered recipe notebook.

Back at home, I gathered the fresh herbs and limes I had purchased from the market and set to work creating the vinaigrette. The aroma of the chopped basil, parsley, and cilantro mixed with the zest of the limes filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that sunny day at the market. As I whisked in the olive oil and a touch of honey, the dressing emulsified into a vibrant green elixir that promised to elevate any dish it touched.

I drizzled the Herb Lime Vinaigrette over a simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, and took my first bite. The bright flavors danced on my taste buds, each herb and citrus note playing its part in creating a harmonious symphony of taste. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

As I continued to make the Herb Lime Vinaigrette, I experimented with different variations and adaptations, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Each time I made the dressing, I felt a connection to Maria and her great-grandmother, grateful for the gift of their cherished recipe.

Over the years, I shared the Herb Lime Vinaigrette with friends and family, bringing it to potlucks, picnics, and dinner parties. It became a signature dish of mine, a token of love and tradition that I passed down to the next generation.

One day, my granddaughter approached me with a curious expression on her face. "Grandma," she said, "where did you learn to make this amazing Herb Lime Vinaigrette? It's so delicious!"

I smiled and patted her hand. "Well, my dear, it all started with a chance encounter at the farmer's market many years ago. The recipe was shared with me by a kind young woman named Maria, whose family has cherished it for generations. And now, it has become a part of our family tradition as well."

My granddaughter's eyes lit up with wonder, and she asked if I could teach her how to make the vinaigrette. I gladly obliged, guiding her through the steps and explaining the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients. As we worked together in the kitchen, I saw a spark of passion and curiosity in her eyes, a glimpse of the same love for cooking that had guided me through my culinary journey.

As we sat down to enjoy a salad dressed with the Herb Lime Vinaigrette, I watched my granddaughter take her first bite. A smile spread across her face, mirroring my own joy and satisfaction. In that moment, I knew that the tradition of this recipe would continue to flourish, passed down from generation to generation, a thread connecting us to our past and our future.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about the journey that led me to discover the Herb Lime Vinaigrette, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, the people, and the memories that have shaped my love for cooking. It is a gift that I will always cherish, a legacy that I am proud to share with those I hold dear. And as I look forward to the future, I am excited to see where this recipe will take us next, what new adventures and discoveries it will bring into our lives. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body; it is about nourishing the soul, creating connections, and weaving a tapestry of flavors and stories that will endure for generations to come.